West Ham United reject approach for Rangers-linked defender

Rangers are apparently interested in Ben Johnson, while Crystal Palace’s attempt to sign the West Ham United defender has been unsuccessful.

Rangers are expected to conduct some business as the January transfer window nears its end.

Rangers are interested in signing left back Jefte, who is currently on loan with APOEL from Fluminense.

Fans may hope to see another striker arrive amid links to Hearts ace Lawrence Shankland and Lens winger Oscar Cortes, who should arrive soon.

It’s difficult to imagine too much more business but Rangers have been linked with a Premier League defender who will seemingly be very difficult to sign…

West Ham United stand firm on Rangers target Ben Johnson

Rangers reportedly pursued West Ham United defender Ben Johnson during the January transfer window.

Rangers are reportedly vying for Johnson when his contract expires, with Leeds United and Sheffield United also interested.

Johnson will become a free agency at the conclusion of the season, so the Rangers may have sensed a bargain.

According to The Athletic, Crystal Palace asked about signing Johnson before the transfer deadline on Thursday, but West Ham declined.

West Ham are reportedly planning to give Johnson a new contract in the next weeks, so a sale is entirely out of the question.

Rangers would most certainly receive the similar response from West Ham, although the Gers have one advantage over Palace.

Because of Johnson’s contract position, Rangers can approach the defender with a pre-contract deal, assuring his free transfer for the summer.

Palace cannot make such an offer and Rangers could yet take advantage of those cross-border rules by moving for Johnson even after the window has closed, securing him for next season.

Johnson, a versatile defender who can play throughout the back four, might be a good fit for Philippe Clement. However, the 24-year-old should prioritize first-team football.

Johnson, a right defender, would face competition from James Tavernier, making a transfer to Rangers not ideal for his current needs.

A deal before the deadline is unlikely, but Rangers will keep a careful eye on Johnson’s status while West Ham consider a new contract.

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